“SCE will deliver a world-class cloud-streaming service that allows users to instantly enjoy a broad array of content ranging from immersive core games with rich graphics to casual content anytime, anywhere on a variety of internet-connected devices.”

Interestingly, purchasing Gaikai may well mean that Sony will enter other devices by stealth.

Back in early June it was announced that Samsung has entered a partnership with Gaikai to port the service on to its smart TV platform. It also penned a deal with LG back in January at CES 2012.

“Samsung will become a first party and we will power their game network. They will be the fourth major company. They are going after gaming.”

Explained Gaikai Chief Executive David Perry at the time.

With the buyout of Gaikai, Sony will no doubt be looking to bring the service to its PS3, but it will be the PS4 where Gaikai may come into its own.

Will this mean that Sony will do away with physical copies altogether and go full stream ahead with its next-gen console?

It’s doubtful but it will certainly give its users the option to, something that will no doubt give games retailers a few sleepless nights.